Definition

Verb: - To associate or be on friendly terms with someone in a familiar, brotherly manner, especially when such behavior is considered inappropriate or unexpected, such as with a rival or enemy.

Usage

The verb "fraternise" describes the act of forming a friendly, informal, or social relationship. It often carries a nuance of breaking an official or expected barrier, such as between different ranks, opposing groups, or enemies. It is typically used in contexts where such mixing is frowned upon or prohibited.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to fraternise with the enemy": A common phrase implying treasonous or disloyal friendly contact with an opposing side, especially in a military or highly competitive context.
  • During the war, anyone suspected of fraternising with the enemy faced severe punishment.

Variants and Related Words

• Fraternisation (noun): The act or an instance of fraternising.
  • The new policy aimed to prevent fraternisation between officers and enlisted personnel.
• Fraternal (adjective): Of or like a brother; relating to a brotherly relationship.
  • They shared a fraternal bond despite not being related.

Synonyms

• Consort: To associate or keep company (often used in a negative or formal context).
• Mingle: To mix or socialize with others.
• Socialize: To participate in social activities; to mix socially with others.

Phrasal Verbs

Note: "Fraternise" itself is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. Its meaning is typically expressed directly.

Related Idioms

• To cross the line: To behave in a way that is no longer acceptable, often by becoming too familiar. This idiom can describe the inappropriate aspect of fraternising.
  • By dating a subordinate, he was accused of crossing the line and fraternising.

Verb

1. be on friendly terms with someone, as if with a brother, especially with an enemy